The decision is up to you.

As I start my term as the new chair of the executive board, I see a profession facing tremendous change. While many fingers have been pointed and motives discussed, the fact remains that unfortunate events have transpired. The profession, regulators and the government have all taken steps to prevent such things from happening again. While some still seek retribution, others have taken a more proactive path.

We too must choose a path. As CPAs, we can be leaders of change and rebuild the trust in our profession, or we can stand back and wish for the old days. We either embrace the inevitable and move forward, or stand still and risk extinction.

It is up to you to decide. We are all in a position to impact those around us, from our colleagues to our acquaintances and families. When those around you seek your opinion, what will you say? Each one of us has the ability to positively change perceptions about the profession and educate those around us on the issues impacting the profession. Are you up-to-date on the events that are shaping the profession and the financial markets?

If you want to make a difference, there are several avenues available to you. Through our speaker's bureau, you can learn both the issues at hand and how to effectively convey your perspective to those around you. Our legislative keyperson program gives you the opportunity to express your thoughts and opinions directly to your local representatives. There is also our new member initiatives program--which allows you to be involved in activities that impact your local community.

The choice is up to you. We have a member initiatives program that emphasizes "your time=your terms." If you want to be an active participant, send an e-mail to [e-mail] expressing how you would like to be involved, and an Ohio Society staff member will contact you. Information about the different ways you can be involved can also be accessed through the Society's Web site at Volunteer Opportunities, which is under the Member tab.

I have made my choice. I want to be an active participant in the direction of my profession. As the new chair of the executive board, I am excited to have an opportunity to make a difference.

A decision is to be made; as a profession, as an organization, as an individual. It is up to each and every one of us to decide whether we will stand up and participate, or lie back and let it pass us by. Together, we are all in a position to make a difference.

Respectfully submitted,

Michael R. Dickson, CPA, CITP

Chair of the Board

The Ohio Society of CPAs